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First Aid Tips
If you witness an individual having a seizure, you can help by
following these steps:
- Remain calm. Let the seizure
take its course—do not try to stop the seizure or revive the person. If
possible, note the time duration of the seizure and any different
movements or behaviors. Never forcefully restrain the person as this
can result in injury such as shoulder dislocation.
- Protect the individual from possible injury. Remove hard or
sharp objects from the area, and place something soft under the head.
Loosen any tight clothing, especially from the neck.
- Do not place anything in
the person’s mouth as this can cause injury to the person with the
seizure. People with seizures do not swallow their tongue.
- Roll the person on their side after
the seizure is over. This will allow the saliva to drain away and helps
clear the airway.
- Stay with the person until they become
reoriented.
While most seizures last one to two minutes, the individual will
typically feel confused or dazed for up to 15 minutes following an
episode. If a seizure lasts five minutes or more, or repeats without
full recovery of consciousness, seek medical attention immediately.
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